Rossini wrote his Petite Messe Solennelle in his old age, 30 years after his last opera. The work, for the unusual combination of 4‐part chorus, vocal soloists, piano 4‐hands and harmonium, is a unique blend of the comic and devotional, of superficiality and deep feeling. Because of the small instrumental forces the work is often performed, to great public success.

Also included is the seldom performed Hymn O salutaris hostia, for soprano and piano. A world premiere is the Salutaris de campagne, added as a bonus track.

The soloists on this new recording have won their spurs in the field of Italian opera, all of them seasoned Rossini singers.

The excellent liner notes relate the history of the work and its interpretation, the specifications of the

instruments used, and biographies of the singers.